5 Steps to Prayer: A Simple Guide to Talking With God

Ashland Watson
May 26
4 min read

Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated. You don’t need the perfect words or a polished script... just a willing heart and a desire to connect. At Mosaic International, we believe prayer is a powerful, relational gift that anchors us in God’s presence and opens us to His will.

Whether you’re new to faith or simply longing for a deeper spiritual rhythm, these 5 steps to prayer offer a simple and approachable guide for talking with God.

We’ve also wanted to remind you of our FREE 5-day devotional to help you put these steps into practice. More on that in a moment... but first, let’s walk through the heart of prayer, step by step.

Step 1: Pause and Enter His Presence

The first step in prayer is showing up. In our busy, distracted world, that alone is an act of surrender. Before you say a word, take a moment to breathe deeply. Turn off distractions, close your eyes, and invite the Holy Spirit to quiet your heart.

"Be still, and know that I am God." —Psalm 46:10

Sometimes, all you need for a meaningful prayer time is a moment of stillness. God doesn’t rush us... He meets us right where we are.

Step 2: Praise and Give Thanks

Gratitude sets the tone. Begin your prayer by thanking God for who He is and what He’s done. This isn’t about ignoring your struggles... it’s about grounding your heart in truth.

Even when life feels messy or uncertain, there’s always something to praise God for. Praise shifts our focus from ourselves to the One who holds it all together.

Step 3: Confess and Clear the Air

Authentic connection with God requires honesty. Confession is not about shame... it’s about healing. Talk to God about the things weighing on your heart. Be open about your fears, your failures, and the areas where you’re struggling.

When we bring those things into the light, we make space for grace. Confession clears the air so intimacy can grow.

Step 4: Ask Boldly and Specifically

God invites us to ask. Whether it’s for peace in a chaotic season, wisdom for a big decision, or strength for the day ahead, He wants to hear it all. The Bible says, “You do not have because you do not ask God” (James 4:2).

Listen to Jesus

Jesus Himself taught us how to pray with boldness, clarity, and surrender. In Matthew 6:9–13, He gave us this prayer, which models praise, confession, requests, and submission all in one:

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”(Matthew 6:9–13, NIV)

The Lord’s Prayer is a powerful anchor... something you can return to whenever words feel far away. It reminds us that God is both holy and near, both provider and protector.

Step 5: Listen and Rest in His Love

Prayer is a two-way conversation. After you’ve shared your heart, take time to listen. This might feel unfamiliar at first, but give it time. Sometimes the Holy Spirit speaks through a verse, a whisper of peace, or a quiet nudge in your spirit.

And if you don’t hear anything right away? That’s okay. Rest in the truth that God is present. Let your final moments of prayer be filled with surrender and stillness.

Want to Go Deeper? Download Our FREE 5-Day Devotional

If you’re ready to strengthen your prayer life, we’d love to walk with you.

Mosaic International created a free 5-day discipleship devotional designed to help you deepen your faith and build a consistent, meaningful prayer time. Each day offers practical insights, Scripture-based reflections, and space to engage with God personally.

Whether you are on your lunch break, in a quiet moment before bed, or sitting with your morning coffee, this devotional will guide you step-by-step toward richer conversations with God.

5 Steps to Prayer

Prayer is more than a spiritual task...it’s a relationship. And just like any relationship, it grows through time, honesty, and consistency.

The 5 steps to prayer aren’t a rigid formula. They’re a flexible rhythm. One that invites you to show up authentically, speak boldly, and listen expectantly.

At Mosaic International, we believe that a vibrant prayer life isn’t reserved for pastors or spiritual “experts.” It’s available to everyone. Including you.

So start where you are. Download the devotional. Light a candle. Take a breath. And just talk to God.

He’s already listening.